Orange County soccer coach accused of lewd acts with girl

Orange County soccer coach Ronnie Gamez has been arrested on suspicion of committing lewd acts with a minor.

Orange County soccer coach Ronnie Gamez has been arrested on suspicion of committing lewd acts with a minor. (Orange County Sheriff's Deparment)

Richard Winton

A soccer coach in southern Orange County has been arrested on suspicion of committing lewd acts with a girl, authorities said Thursday.

Ronnie Gamez, 27, was taken into custody Wednesday by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s Special Victims Detail. Gamez, of Laguna Niguel, coached for several southern Orange County club organizations.

"This involved a south Orange County club team," said Sheriff's Lt. Jeff Hallock, who declined to give more details to protect the identity of the minor.

The arrest stems from an incident in early March, when the victim's parents found inappropriate communications between their child and Gamez. They reported it to authorities.

Investigators allege an "inappropriate sexual relationship allegedly began in February 2014 through March 2014."

Detectives noted Gamez’s position as a girls soccer coach may have provided him access to more minors who may have been victimized.

Hallock said detectives are seeking the public’s help in identifying any additional victims. Investigators with the Special Victims Detail may be reached at (714) 647-7419, and anonymous tips may go to OC Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or at occrimestoppers.org.